GC Titans vs. Plainedge Red Riders

Michael Franco fends off opponent and maintains control

On September 29th, the Titans traveled to Plainedge to play the Rough Riders. They played a good game on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, but were outplayed by a more seasoned Plainedge team that has played together as a team for two years. To their credit, the Titans played a good, hard game of soccer and constantly fought for every ball. Despite this valiant effort, the Titans lost 4-0 to Plainedge.

The Red Riders scored early in the game on a skillful corner kick that curved past the Titan defenders into the goal. Michael Franco and Mark Luglio made several good attempts to move the ball past the Plainedge defense, but were prevented from advancing the ball very deeply. Jack Riceman, Brian Leggett, and Owen Prendergast worked hard on defense keeping the Red Riders away from the goal. Despite strong goaltending by John Schlichte in the first half, the Plainedge offense was able to penetrate the Titans defense once on a breakaway, and another time with a strong shot from the 18-yard line, and scored both times to end the half with a 3-0 lead.

John Schlitche pressures opponent for possession

The Titans came out ready to strike back in the second half. Joe Leighton was solid in goal and made a number of good saves. The Titans nearly scored on a corner kick by Jack Roscoe but could not get the ball into the goal. First-rate footwork and dribbling by Conor Lehan, Bobby McLoughlin, and Michael DeSimone could not pierce the Red Riders' defense, despite repeated attempts. Although the Titans' defense did a better job in the second half of dealing with Plainedge's offensive pressure, the Red Riders scored again late in the game on a 2 vs. 1 play. Garden City played a good, hard game, and the parents and coaches are proud of them. The Titans travel to Windsor, CT this coming weekend to play in a tournament against teams from New England.

Joe Leighton makes the save